Pirates descend on Nanaimo

Get an eyepatch, put a parrot on your shoulder and assume your best swashbuckling attitude for Piratefest, Friday and Saturday at Country Club Centre in Nanaimo. This is the fourth year of the popular family-friendly event, the highlight of the monthlong Festival Nanaimo.

On Friday, there are piratethemed crafts, ship races with the Nanaimo Child Development Centre and face painting from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday is Piratefest Day, in which young and old mates are encouraged to dress up in their best pirate gear. Activities run from 10 a.m to 1 p.m. At noon, there will be a stage show, followed by a parade.

All the activities are free. Piratefest runs at the Country Club Centre, 3200 North Island Hwy. Go to festivalnanaimo.com.